Round “Dali” marble dream stone, China, first half of the 20th century
Diameter: 24 cm
Round “Dali” marble dream stone with painted inscription and red seal, framed. This particular variety of marble comes from the south-western region of Yunnan and takes its name from the town of Dali, located close to the traditional quarrying centres. These decorative slabs that adorned the homes of the literati are also known as 'dreamstones', due to the particular effects created by the stone's natural veining, often evoking, as in this case, mountainous landscapes.